Five gorgeous hotels in Sri Lanka

1. Santani Wellness Named for the Sanskrit word meaning “in harmony with,” Santani is the epitome of being in balance with nature in terms of their surroundings as well as their wellness offerings. The hotel is designed according to the highest sustainability and eco-standards and their wellness programmes in Ayurveda, detox, yoga and spa combine on-site pampering and rejuvenation with enlightened learning for healthy living.

The site is a 48-acre former tea plantation within a pristine forest. It is completely accessible yet blissfully secluded. The rooms are built for natural ventilation and are air-condition free – stylish and utterly comfortable, the interiors too are deliberately minimal. These private retreats invite you to rest, relax or meditate while inhaling the pure fresh air and taking in the pristine, truly inspiring scenery around you.

2. Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort Sri Lanka is a luxurious five-star resort hidden on a rocky outcrop along a secluded stretch of Sri Lanka’s southernmost coastline. Set amidst a coconut plantation and golden crescent shores with glorious Indian Ocean views, the resort offers a naturally exclusive hideaway for exotic beach life in a tranquil world of your own. Complementing such a beautiful destination, resort facilities are designed with relaxation and luxurious indulgence in mind, and culinary journeys are crafted with a focus on mouthwatering diversity and impeccable tastes.

3. Ceylon Tea Trails, Hatton Ceylon Tea Trails comprises five restored historic tea planter residences, called bungalows, perched at an altitude of 1250 metres in Sri Lanka’s panoramic Ceylon tea region. Complete with period furnishings, gracious butler service, and gourmet cuisine, the non-hotel ambience has made Tea Trails the gold standard for luxury in Sri Lanka. A stay at Ceylon Tea Trails would not be complete without a walk along the nature trails encompassing lush tea landscapes, local settlements and rich cultural heritage. Along these trails lie the hidden gems of flora and fauna, and if you’re lucky enough, a leopard pugmark or some fresh scat.

4. Anantara Kalutara Uniquely secluded between the Indian Ocean and Kalu Ganga River, Anantara Kalutara Resort is naturally exclusive. Admire two views of paradise from a haven of elegant simplicity and great craftsmanship, inspired by the late Geoffrey Bawa - Sri Lanka’s most famous architect. Practice yoga and meditation in coastal quiet. Tropical swimming pools soothe. Water sports thrills invigorate. Kids’ and teens’ clubs keep youngsters creatively engaged, while you indulge at Sri Lanka’s most luxurious spa.

5. Wild Coast Tented Lodge, Yala Adjacent to the Yala National Park, a spectacular beachfront safari lodge awaits. The unique design – which mirrors the boulders scattered across the golden beach beyond - sees it blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape, whilst a clever layout in the shape of a leopard’s paw alludes to the area's most famous resident. Teeming with incredible biodiversity, the Yala National Park offers exceptional wildlife experiences. Besides being home to the largest population of leopards in Sri Lanka, Yala is also home to elephants, sloth bears, mugger crocodiles and a kaleidoscopic array of birdlife. The rangers are passionate, educated and highly skilled, with an eye for detail. Going on a safari or nature walk is not only about the facts, as they also offer a deep respect for the wild. Watch them interpret signs of wildlife to deliver a fascinating narrative, making each of the outdoor drives and walks a distinct experience.